Islamic hackers have attacked the website of a Kosovo newspaper, claiming that the publication was “mocking Islam”.

Pristina daily Express claimed that the attack was sparked by its coverage of a trial in North Carolina, US, in which a Kosovar Albanian faces charges of international terrorism.

The website was hacked on Monday night and a message from the anonymous group or individual placed on its front page for ten hours.

The message read: “This is only a message for this anti-Islamic newspaper that won’t stop mocking the Islamic religion. The Islamic religion deserves respect. Greetings to all Muslims. Proud to be Muslim and Albanian (KosovaR).”

In a statement, the newspaper said: “The newspaper has published the transcripts of conversations and exclusive photographs secured by the Prosecution of North Carolina, proving the involvement of the suspected jihad group planning terrorist acts. The group of seven includes Hysen Sherifi from Gjilan who, according to FBI, was planning terrorist attacks in Kosovo too.” Sherifi’s trial continues.

The newspaper website was then taken off line with a message saying: “After last night’s attack against the website of Express newspaper we are forced to stop working until the problem has been fixed. We ask for your understanding.” The website has now been restored.